Matic Teams Spotlight

Occasionally we get the chance to get to know our awesome teams a little better. We recently sat down with Jacque, a Sr. Android Developer supporting our clients, and dig into his road to software development. He's a truly endearing fellow we're lucky to work with.

1. How did you get into Android Development?

I almost didn't. Let's go back to 2015. I was a Junior in college, and I was interested in becoming a developer so I was taking programming classes. As a requirement of this class I needed one of two things, an  internship or a professor assignment. I wanted to find an internship. Norfolk Southern had an internship available that offered a great paying salary.  The day after I got married they reached out to me and offered me the job. In my role, I was  doing Java work-but I didn’t feel that it was the right fit for me. Not only that, but the company culture was not exciting. My co-workers were there for a paycheck and a pension. There wasn’t a feeling of passion amongst the team. I quit the internship and took some time to reflect on what I wanted to do. I realized I really enjoyed Android work. I spent the remainder of my  time in college learning Android. After graduation I became a blogger, created a community that shared my passion, and I worked to mentor individuals. In 2017, after applying to over 70 jobs and receiving rejection after rejection I finally landed a huge role.

2. How long have you been a developer?

Nearly 8 years!‍

3. Where are you from?

I'm originally from Georgia.

4. Where are you living now?

I have moved around a bit. We lived  in Illinois for two years, and then moved to California. I was really curious about the lifestyle California had to offer. We lived in Northern California for a little while and then moved to Southern California. Ultimately my heart brought us back to Georgia.

5. What is your favorite thing about the industry?

I am an advocate for unconventional types of developers. I was a football player in school, and never considered a career in tech - frankly I was a late bloomer in the field. Developers who are self taught, are hungry and have dedicated a lot of time to hone their craft. I think this gives them a different lens that they are viewing projects through. I love collaborating with my team, and learning about the process that other people have. I feel like this industry has room for all types of people. The differing personalities, backgrounds, cultures, and mindsets, create an environment where ideas can come to life. The most important thing I have learned is to be humble. You really have to admit that you will always be a student of the craft. This is something I love about the field because I am always learning. Personally I have decided that I will only do Android work. As I have grown in my career, I realized that I could be an adequate iOS and Android developer, or I could be a master of one platform.

6. What is currently in your Spotify rotation?

I have an eclectic taste in music. What I listen to really depends on  what I am doing at the time. If I am working out I like to listen to music that is upbeat. Late 90’s early 2000’s hip hop is my go to. When I am working I like to listen to Afro Samurai- it is very motivational.

7. What are 2 things about you that don't involve work?

I enjoy snowboarding. I also own a 1962 Chevy C10!
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Jacque is currently booked the next several months on a client engagement. If you'd like to inquire about him or other Matic Teams practitioners get in touch!

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